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Nest of the Gyrfalcon: Book Two of the Story of Eleanor of Aquitaine
Spring 1152.
Once she was a Queen, and will become so again...
Eleanor of Aquitaine has escaped her marriage to Louis of France, as well as various lords bent on capturing her and forcing her into marriage with them, and is safe in her homeland once more. Sending a message to Henry, Duke of Normandy, Eleanor arranges her second marriage, this time to a lord of her choosing, a man already in possession of an empire of his own, an heir to the English throne about to take back the crown stolen from his mother, the Empress Matilda.
Through civil war, uprisings, and political turmoil, Eleanor, once Queen of France, will rise to become Eleanor, Queen of England, fierce defender of her children, and dedicated leader of her people.
Nest of the Gyrfalcon is Book Six of the Heirs of Anarchy, and Book Two of the Story of Eleanor of Aquitaine, by G. Lawrence.
The author's thanks are due to Julia Gibbs, proof reader of this work of fiction, and Betibup33 Studio Designs, the cover artist.
Once she was a Queen, and will become so again...
Eleanor of Aquitaine has escaped her marriage to Louis of France, as well as various lords bent on capturing her and forcing her into marriage with them, and is safe in her homeland once more. Sending a message to Henry, Duke of Normandy, Eleanor arranges her second marriage, this time to a lord of her choosing, a man already in possession of an empire of his own, an heir to the English throne about to take back the crown stolen from his mother, the Empress Matilda.
Through civil war, uprisings, and political turmoil, Eleanor, once Queen of France, will rise to become Eleanor, Queen of England, fierce defender of her children, and dedicated leader of her people.
Nest of the Gyrfalcon is Book Six of the Heirs of Anarchy, and Book Two of the Story of Eleanor of Aquitaine, by G. Lawrence.
The author's thanks are due to Julia Gibbs, proof reader of this work of fiction, and Betibup33 Studio Designs, the cover artist.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
May 27, 2024
Having long admired the character of Eleanor of Aquitaine from the classic 1968 film "The Lion in Winter," I approached G. Lawrence's "Nest of the Gyrfalcon: Book Two of the Story of Eleanor of Aquitaine" with high expectations. As did the first book, this latest installment in the series did not disappoint, as it beautifully captures the essence of Eleanor, her indomitable spirit, and her complex relationships.
The novel opens in a crypt, where Eleanor reflects on those she has lost and the grudges she still harbors. This introspection sets the tone for the poetic and contemplative journey that follows. Eleanor's musings about the afterlife, forgiveness, and the enduring nature of grudges are both comforting and thought-provoking. The author’s exploration of eternal conflicts and the role of saints as mediators adds a rich, philosophical layer to the narrative.
One of the most striking elements of the book is its poetic reflection on life and death. Lawrence writes, “The flowers we see shooting up through the earth grow through the bones of our forebears,” reminding us of the cyclical nature of existence. This metaphor extends to the trees nourished by the blood of fallen warriors and the homes built over ancient graves, suggesting that our lives are interwoven with those of the past. This imagery is both haunting and beautiful, providing a profound commentary on the legacy we inherit and leave behind.
Eleanor's reflections on faith and human nature are particularly resonant. Her skepticism towards the priests' promises of a perfect afterlife mirrors a common struggle with belief. She acknowledges the complexity of emotions, stating, "Hate can bring fire to a life, just as love can," and she views the world as a place of peril and contradiction. This nuanced portrayal of Eleanor as a woman of depth and introspection makes her relatable and compelling.
The narrative takes a dynamic turn as Eleanor escapes her unhappy marriage to Louis of France and orchestrates her union with Henry, Duke of Normandy. This bold move, driven by political strategy and personal desire, showcases her determination and intelligence. Lawrence vividly depicts Eleanor's resolve to secure her territories and independence, even as she navigates the dangers of her time.
Eleanor's reflections on her marriages are candid and revealing. She describes Louis as "a monk who somehow stumbled, lurched, and came to sit on a throne," and contrasts this with her passionate and strategic marriage to Henry. Her motivations are clear: to protect her lands and assert her autonomy in a world where women were often pawns. Her pragmatic approach to marriage and her determination to rule as a free woman resonate strongly throughout the novel.
As the story progresses, Eleanor's role as a mother and leader comes to the forefront. Her fierce love for her children and her commitment to their future is palpable. The author captures her struggles and triumphs, from her efforts to reclaim her lands to her challenges in balancing personal desires with political necessities. The tension between Eleanor and Henry, particularly over his relationship with Thomas Becket, adds drama and depth to the narrative.
The portrayal of Eleanor's later years is particularly moving. Returning to her homeland, she finds solace and purpose. The imagery of the gyrfalcon, a symbol of Aquitaine, teaching its young to fly, serves as a powerful metaphor for Eleanor’s own journey and legacy. Her happiness in her homeland, surrounded by her children, contrasts with the romanticized notions of love and fulfillment. Lawrence beautifully captures Eleanor's realization that true satisfaction comes from within and from one's connection to place and family.
"Nest of the Gyrfalcon" is a masterful continuation of Eleanor of Aquitaine's story. G. Lawrence's eloquent prose and deep understanding of Eleanor's character make this novel a compelling read. It is a rich tapestry of history, philosophy, and personal reflection that will captivate readers and leave them eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. For anyone who admires Eleanor or enjoys historical fiction, this book is a must-read.
The novel opens in a crypt, where Eleanor reflects on those she has lost and the grudges she still harbors. This introspection sets the tone for the poetic and contemplative journey that follows. Eleanor's musings about the afterlife, forgiveness, and the enduring nature of grudges are both comforting and thought-provoking. The author’s exploration of eternal conflicts and the role of saints as mediators adds a rich, philosophical layer to the narrative.
One of the most striking elements of the book is its poetic reflection on life and death. Lawrence writes, “The flowers we see shooting up through the earth grow through the bones of our forebears,” reminding us of the cyclical nature of existence. This metaphor extends to the trees nourished by the blood of fallen warriors and the homes built over ancient graves, suggesting that our lives are interwoven with those of the past. This imagery is both haunting and beautiful, providing a profound commentary on the legacy we inherit and leave behind.
Eleanor's reflections on faith and human nature are particularly resonant. Her skepticism towards the priests' promises of a perfect afterlife mirrors a common struggle with belief. She acknowledges the complexity of emotions, stating, "Hate can bring fire to a life, just as love can," and she views the world as a place of peril and contradiction. This nuanced portrayal of Eleanor as a woman of depth and introspection makes her relatable and compelling.
The narrative takes a dynamic turn as Eleanor escapes her unhappy marriage to Louis of France and orchestrates her union with Henry, Duke of Normandy. This bold move, driven by political strategy and personal desire, showcases her determination and intelligence. Lawrence vividly depicts Eleanor's resolve to secure her territories and independence, even as she navigates the dangers of her time.
Eleanor's reflections on her marriages are candid and revealing. She describes Louis as "a monk who somehow stumbled, lurched, and came to sit on a throne," and contrasts this with her passionate and strategic marriage to Henry. Her motivations are clear: to protect her lands and assert her autonomy in a world where women were often pawns. Her pragmatic approach to marriage and her determination to rule as a free woman resonate strongly throughout the novel.
As the story progresses, Eleanor's role as a mother and leader comes to the forefront. Her fierce love for her children and her commitment to their future is palpable. The author captures her struggles and triumphs, from her efforts to reclaim her lands to her challenges in balancing personal desires with political necessities. The tension between Eleanor and Henry, particularly over his relationship with Thomas Becket, adds drama and depth to the narrative.
The portrayal of Eleanor's later years is particularly moving. Returning to her homeland, she finds solace and purpose. The imagery of the gyrfalcon, a symbol of Aquitaine, teaching its young to fly, serves as a powerful metaphor for Eleanor’s own journey and legacy. Her happiness in her homeland, surrounded by her children, contrasts with the romanticized notions of love and fulfillment. Lawrence beautifully captures Eleanor's realization that true satisfaction comes from within and from one's connection to place and family.
"Nest of the Gyrfalcon" is a masterful continuation of Eleanor of Aquitaine's story. G. Lawrence's eloquent prose and deep understanding of Eleanor's character make this novel a compelling read. It is a rich tapestry of history, philosophy, and personal reflection that will captivate readers and leave them eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series. For anyone who admires Eleanor or enjoys historical fiction, this book is a must-read.
June 30, 2024
How gorgeous is that cover?!
And so Eleanor marries Henry II, and starts giving birth to their vast brood of children. I liked the second half of the book best, when she's actually present and experiencing events, rather than the story being told via letters and conversations with others, as in the first half. Then, I became totally absorbed! I know how well researched this author's books are, so I was fascinated to read about the early years of Henry, Richard and John (in particular), and I loved the nice little bit of foreshadowing at John's birth.
This book underlined so well how difficult life was for women in those days. Eleanor was a remarkable person, but her decisions were so hampered by directives from her husband. Henry II has always been one of my favourite Plantagenet kings, so it was a shame to read that he was not quite as noble as I'd hoped - but then again, we cannot judge people of the 12th and 13th centuries by today's standards. This book has a wise, brave heroine, a misguided hero and a snake-like antagonist in the form of Thomas Beckett - perfect.
As ever with this author's books, I loved reading about how people lived in those days, and I very much look forward to the next in the series, Eaglets.
And so Eleanor marries Henry II, and starts giving birth to their vast brood of children. I liked the second half of the book best, when she's actually present and experiencing events, rather than the story being told via letters and conversations with others, as in the first half. Then, I became totally absorbed! I know how well researched this author's books are, so I was fascinated to read about the early years of Henry, Richard and John (in particular), and I loved the nice little bit of foreshadowing at John's birth.
This book underlined so well how difficult life was for women in those days. Eleanor was a remarkable person, but her decisions were so hampered by directives from her husband. Henry II has always been one of my favourite Plantagenet kings, so it was a shame to read that he was not quite as noble as I'd hoped - but then again, we cannot judge people of the 12th and 13th centuries by today's standards. This book has a wise, brave heroine, a misguided hero and a snake-like antagonist in the form of Thomas Beckett - perfect.
As ever with this author's books, I loved reading about how people lived in those days, and I very much look forward to the next in the series, Eaglets.
July 7, 2024
3.5 stars
I am a huge fan of Eleanor of Aquitaine and this author. This story starts with the marriage of Eleanor to Henry and surprisingly as much as I thought I knew about this remarkable woman - I learned alot. The problem was that it got bogged down in heavy text/description and not enough dialogue. I found myself skimming through parts of it because I was getting bored. Hopefully the next book will be better balanced.
I am a huge fan of Eleanor of Aquitaine and this author. This story starts with the marriage of Eleanor to Henry and surprisingly as much as I thought I knew about this remarkable woman - I learned alot. The problem was that it got bogged down in heavy text/description and not enough dialogue. I found myself skimming through parts of it because I was getting bored. Hopefully the next book will be better balanced.
April 29, 2024
Stunning!
So nice to read a book about her that shows her early years. I had no idea that they were only married for 14? Years! I read this book in two days and could not put it down. I am excited for the next in the series.
So nice to read a book about her that shows her early years. I had no idea that they were only married for 14? Years! I read this book in two days and could not put it down. I am excited for the next in the series.
April 28, 2024
A great series!!!!
June 26, 2024
Gotta love a G. Lawrence series!!
I love the way G Lawrence has, once again, brought Eleanor of Aquitaine to life and can not wait to read the next installment, Eaglets! Thank you!!
I love the way G Lawrence has, once again, brought Eleanor of Aquitaine to life and can not wait to read the next installment, Eaglets! Thank you!!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews